The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Akwa-Ibom Reps member Jimbo distributes free school bags to pupils

    Akwa-Ibom Reps member Jimbo distributes free school bags to pupils

    Member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon Clement Jimbo has given out over 3,000 schools bags to Government Primary school pupils in the constituency. 

    Beneficiaries include students from Government Primary School, Ibanang Ediene, Abak;  St. John Primary School, Oku- Abak;  Government Primary School, Nkwot Ikot Ebo, Q.I.C Town School, Uruk Ata 2 ,  St. John Primary School, Ikot Akpan Okure and Government Primary School, Ikot Essien.

    The Deputy Chairman House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development said:  “Education is the most powerful weapon which can change the World, hence his passion  to invest in Education empowerment.”

    Jimbo said the school bags project was to address the educational needs of children in his constituency amidst economic challenges in the nation. 

    He emphasised  that for many students, receiving a school bag filled with educational supplies was a practical support as well as a symbol of care and investment in their future. 

    Jimbo further explained the  project would enhance the dignity and morale of students while boosting the confidence to attend school without feeling different or disadvantaged. 

    Read Also: US pledges support for Nigeria on local govt autonomy

    His words: “School  bags are  most basic school supplies, such as backpacks, notebooks and writing tools, which are essential for  children’s education. 

    “Without these materials, students often feel excluded, discouraged, and unable to participate fully in their studies. 

    “The School bags distribution project was designed as a response to this dire need, focusing on ensuring that every child has the tools required to pursue an education in dignity.

    ” Likewise  this will  allow parents to allocate their limited resources toward other essential needs. I believe the project impact will extend  beyond the immediate distribution of supplies, fostering a sense of hope and support among the community.”

    Jimbo affirmed his commitment to educational empowerment will continue with initiatives that will  further contribute to the social and educational development of his constituents hence helping to build a brighter future for students .

     The pupils thanked the House of Representatives member for helping in building a brighter future  for them as well as his commitment to educational empowerment. 

    Head Teacher of St. John Catholic School in Ikot Okure, Mr. Francis Udo Mboro and Head Teacher of Government Primary School, Ikot Uko/Ikot Essien, Mr. Vincent Dennis Udo  thanked Jimbo for  his love for education. 

  • New Delta coalition blasts Oborevwori, canvasses change in 2027

    New Delta coalition blasts Oborevwori, canvasses change in 2027

    The New Delta Coalition (NDC) has condemned Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, criticising what it called the lackluster leadership, misplaced priorities and poor governance. 

    The group argued that despite receiving over N1 trillion in FAAC allocations, the Oborevwori-led government has failed to deliver meaningful development, instead showcasing routine infrastructure projects as major achievements.

    In a statement by Godwin Anaughe, the NDC slammed the Governor’s recent approval of N275 billion for 76 projects, dismissing it as an underwhelming milestone for a state with vast financial resources. 

    The coalition accused the Governor of lacking ambition and vision, celebrating mediocre achievements as groundbreaking successes.

    The NDC argued that the state deserves better than a government that settles for the bare minimum expected of a functional government and calls it a success. 

    It stated that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has consistently set alarmingly low standards for governance.

    The coalition also criticised Oborevwori’s administration for its over-reliance on increased FAAC allocations, a direct result of President Tinubu’s reforms. 

    This, it argued, exposes the Governor’s lack of vision and ambition, as he fails to explore innovative revenue streams and diversify the state’s economy.

    Instead of reducing dependence on federal funding, the government seems content with a “handout mentality,” traveling to Abuja each month to collect FAAC allocations and spending without strategic foresight. This approach raises concerns about the state’s long-term financial sustainability.

    The New Delta Coalition further lambasted Oborevwori’s administration for its lack of strategic investment in key sectors such as water supply, power generation and distribution, agricultural development, industrial parks, rail transportation, refineries, and affordable low-income housing schemes, which would accelerate economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation. 

    The coalition noted that the state’s economy is plagued by high levels of unemployment, poverty, and infrastructure decay. 

    It also expressed concerns over the opaque handling of project finances and the introduction of a 40% mobilization fee, without disclosing individual project costs. 

    Read Also: Governor Oborevwori mourns Edwin Clark

    This lack of transparency, the NDC argued, creates an environment conducive to corruption and cronyism, and undermines the public’s trust in the government.

    The NDC demanded a government that strives for excellence, prioritizes the needs of its people, and drives transformative change. 

    The coalition urged Governor Oborevwori to aim higher, be bold, and prioritize the needs of the people above all else.

    “The people of Delta deserve better than a government that celebrates mediocrity and fails to maximize its economic potential,” the NDC stated.

    As the 2027 elections draw near, the New Delta Coalition urged Deltans to unite and demand a transformative shift in governance leadership, stressing that for 28 long years, the state has been governed by a single party, yielding mediocre results that have stifled progress and hindered prosperity.

    The NDC rallied support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the only viable alternative to break the cycle of poor governance, corruption, and underdevelopment.

    “The time for change is now,” the statement continued. “Delta State needs a government that is transparent, accountable, and truly committed to the welfare of its people. We call on every Deltan to reject this culture of complacency and demand transformational leadership in 2027.

  • Protesters against Otuaro were hired by blackmailers, say Ijaw youths

    Protesters against Otuaro were hired by blackmailers, say Ijaw youths

    Youths under the auspices of the Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) have described persons, who blocked the National Assembly, on Wednesday to protest against the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Boss, Dr. Dennis Otuaro as street urchins hired by desperate and corrupt persons from the region.

    The IYN appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ignore a faceless group, the Niger Delta Liberators and Ex-Agitators Forum (NDLEF), involved in peddling outright falsehood against Otuaro.

    The group commended the President for his sustained support for the PAP, its leadership, and the Niger Delta.

    The IYN said that those sponsoring the protest were angry with Otuaro because he refused to open the coffers of the Amnesty Office to them, in the same manner they swindled previous leaders of the programme through blackmail.

    The IYN in a statement issued by its President, Frank Ebikabi, and the Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, condemned the demonstration and described it as a “staged and orchestrated” attempt to blackmail and distract the administrator from his ongoing reforms at the PAP.

    The group advised the President to look carefully and see the falsehood in the allegations of the NDLEF, stressing that they were willing tools in the hands of their sponsors.

    The IYN said: “We strongly condemn the protest in its entirety. Those behind this mischief, and criminal enterprise are those who have registered fake camps to steal funds belonging to the government, and they are not happy that Otuaro’s reforms at the PAP have prevented them from achieving their criminal intentions.

    “We call on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to disregard the Niger Delta Liberators and Ex-Agitators Forum. If the President checks their activities properly, he would see how hollow their allegations sound.

    Read Also: Clark: Ijaw leader bows out

    “Otuaro will not succumb to cheap blackmail. Their lies fly in the face of cogent reforms being carried out by Otuaro. Nigerians are wise enough to see through the nefarious antics of these serial blackmailers whose lives are clearly visible to the discerning mind.

    “To convince the public about their sponsored protest on Wednesday, the NDLEF hired young urchins, bought them new shirts and trousers and slippers to make them appear neat during the protest”.

    The group insisted that Otuaro remained committed to transparency, accountability, and the empowerment of Niger Delta youths in the administration of the Programme.

    Dismissing the allegations of nepotism and financial mismanagement against the PAP leadership, the group said that “all contracts awarded followed due process in line with procurement laws.”

    The IYN said: “This protest is nothing more than an act of desperation by those who wish to derail the progress being made in the Amnesty Programme. Otuaro will not succumb to cheap blackmail.

    “We urge Niger Deltans to disregard the allegations. The administrator’s primary focus remains the fulfillment of the PAP’s mandate.

    “We reaffirm our support for Otuaro’s leadership, and no amount of propaganda would derail his transformative agenda for the Amnesty Programme.

    “We also call on stakeholders and beneficiaries of the PAP to remain steadfast because the programme, under Otuaro’s leadership, will continue to work towards sustainable peace and development in the Niger Delta.”

  • 100 days in office: Igbinovia salutes Okpebholo’s leadership

    100 days in office: Igbinovia salutes Okpebholo’s leadership

    Member representing Ikpoba LGA in EDSOGPADEC, Hon Felix Igbinovia, has congratulated Edo Governor Okpebholo on his 100 days in office. 

    In a statement he said, Igbinovia said this significant milestone not only reflects Governor Okpebholo’s dedication but also showcases the transformative leadership he has brought to the state.

    “It is with great admiration and heartfelt enthusiasm that I extend my warmest congratulations to you on the remarkable occasion of your first 100 days in office as the Executive Governor of Edo State. 

    “Your visionary initiatives, particularly the construction of the bridge at Ramat Park in Ikpoba Okha Local Government, are set to revolutionize our local economy. 

    Read Also: Ikhilor: Okpebholo’s square peg in a square hole

    “This project will undoubtedly enhance business hubs, improve residential accessibility, and significantly reduce traffic congestion, fostering a more vibrant community for all citizens. Furthermore, your commitment to the flyover bridge across Edo State exemplifies your unwavering resolve to modernize our infrastructure and elevate the quality of life for our people.

    “In these first 100 days, you have emerged as a true superstar—a beacon of hope and progress for Edo State. Your exemplary leadership has inspired confidence and optimism among the populace, and it is clear that your policies are paving the way for a brighter future. The impact of your hard work is already being felt, and I am excited to witness the continued positive changes you will bring.

    “As you celebrate this milestone, I encourage you to maintain your focus on the goals that lies ahead. Your passion for public service and commitment to improving the lives of Edo State citizens are commendable attributes that will guide you in the years to come,” he added.

  • Onoh mourns ‘last voice of liberation’ Edwin Clark

    Onoh mourns ‘last voice of liberation’ Edwin Clark

    President Bola Tinubu’s former campaign spokesman in the South East, Dr Josef Onoh, has mourned the late leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark, describing him as the last of Nigeria’s Titans. 

    Onoh said that Clark lived an exemplary life of humanity, using politics to agitate and institute humane governance through his advocacies. 

    He noted that Clark was a national leader and a pan-Nigerian who strived to ensure equity for all nationalities in the country, campaigning for unity of purpose among the divides of the people. 

    “I recall with nostalgia the events of 14th February 2010 when his individual telephone call to a few of us, young politicians, to convene for an emergency meeting, which cut our Valentine’s Day celebration short. In his words, he said, ‘We owe our nation a great sacrifice.

    “He mobilised us as a coalition of Nigeria youth leaders to stand against the cabal that was frustrating the doctrine of necessity, which ushered in President Goodluck Jonathan. He continued to be a guide to us, the voice of wisdom, the voice of hope, the voice of inspiration, the voice of motivation, and the last voice of liberation.”

    Onoh said Clark remained strong and active even at old age, refusing to shift ideology but maintained steadfast in rejecting bad governance, impunity, and injustice.

    He regretted that Clark and the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo of the Afenifere transited at the same time the President Bola Tinubu’s administration needed their wise counsel to navigate the murky waters of Nigeria’s diversity.

    “Nigerians will however be consoled that the footprints of these departed statesmen will remain in their consciousness to continue the process of enthroning a better Nation of our dreams. It’s been my greatest honour and blessing to have benefited from his wise counsel and fountain of wisdom,” Onoh said.

  • Experts advocate unified Afenmai language at cultural day celebration

    Experts advocate unified Afenmai language at cultural day celebration

    …minister calls for continuous support for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu 

    Erudite scholars and notable personalities of the Afenmai community have expressed great concerns about the challenges posed by the diversities in the Afenmai dialects as spoken by members of different Afenmai clans spread across Edo North in Edo state.

    They stressed this at the Afenmai Cultural Day held by Etsako Club ’81 in Lagos on Sunday, 16th February 2025.

    They called for the incorporation of the different dialects into one standardised variant, with well-developed orthography and lexicosemantic features, in a bid to unite the Afenmai community and preserve her language and culture through generations. 

    Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, linked the diversities in the Afenmai language to the migration of her people from Benin to different parts of Etsako West Local Government Area, Etsako East Local Government Area, and Etsako Central Local Government Area. 

    He said: “Afenmai is home to a cluster of closely related dialects, each with its distinct variations. These dialects are spoken across various villages and towns, with certain communities using slightly different vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammatical structures. 

    “While these linguistic variations enrich the cultural fabric of the region, they also present significant challenges for social cohesion, trade, and governance. Communication barriers between these dialects can hinder collaboration, economic exchange, and even effective governance, as leaders must navigate the complexities of different linguistic groups within the same region.”

    He explained that the migration that took place in the 14th and 15th centuries, under the reigns of Oba Ozolua, has continued to impose linguistic differences that posed great challenges to the economic and sociopolitical growth of the Afenmai community. 

    “However, there is leeway, and that is the fact that despite the mythical origins as contained in the legends and folklores of Afenmai people, there is a general consensus amongst history writers which also corresponds to numerous oral traditions as related through the ages, that the Afenmai people came from the Bini nation (precisely from Benin Republic), having migrated in stages during the reigns of Oba Ewuare the Great and Oba Ozolua in the 14th and 15th Centuries respectively.

    “As it were, the said migrations had their causes, the causes, too, had their effects, and the effects as well had their unique and final outcome – the establishment of Afenmai.”

    He, therefore, called for the standardisation of a generally acceptable Afenmai Language that will embrace the diverse dialects and will be used for educational purposes and preservation of the Afenmai culture.

    “The development of a unified language for the people of Afenmai has become an important goal in recent years. While the name “Afenmai” refers to the people of the region and not to a specific language, the need for a common language is becoming increasingly evident. To address this, there have been efforts to standardize the most widely spoken dialects, particularly those of the Etsako language, into a new Afemai language.

    “The adoption of Etsako as the foundation for this unified language is logical, given that it is the most widely spoken and understood across the Afenmai region. However, this does not mean that Etsako should be the sole focus. 

    “To create an inclusive Afemai language that truly represents the entire region, it is essential to draw upon elements from all the dialects, ensuring that no group feels excluded from the process.”

    He added that the quest for a unified Afenmai Language is a leap towards the global goal of preserving indigenous languages. 

    “This new language development is not only a practical step toward greater communication but also an important move toward the preservation of our linguistic heritage. As the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) continues to advocate for the safeguarding of local languages, the creation of a standardized Afenmai language aligns with global efforts to protect and celebrate indigenous languages.”

    He then extolled the affluent Afenmai culture and urged Afenmai people to speak their Afenmai Language to their children at home.

    Minister calls for continuous support for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu 

    Minister for Regional Development, Alhaji  Abubakar Momoh, called on the Afenmai people to rally support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State in delivering Renewed Hope Agenda for the betterment of Nigerians, including Lagosians.

    “I want to use this opportunity to urge every Afenmai person to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the man who has made your son a minister. He has counted you worthy, and it’s best that you throw your support behind in the next election.

    “I also want to remind you, especially residents of Lagos, that Lagos seat of power. The president himself is from Lagos. So, I want to plead that you replicate your support for the federal government with the government of Lagos.”

    The minister also disclosed that concerns for interventions have been noted across different parts of Afenmai. 

    He said: “Before now, I’ve observed that many communities in Afenmai have problems of accessibility. They cannot access their neighbours. They have to embark on tiring journeys just to access villages and towns that are very close to them geographically. The situation really calls for concern. Moreover, other projects should be carried out in Afenmai for the good of the people.”

    He pledged collaboration with the government and agencies involved in addressing the challenges noted in the Afenmai community.  

    “Although my own is answerable to every region of the country, every Nigerian looks up to it expectantly. We do not really have the resources at our disposal to carry out projects. We can only do that through the government and the agencies we supervise. However, I want you to know that before now,  I’ve been in liaison with the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Sen. Monday, on the development of Afenmai, and outcomes will be visible soon. I’ll further engage the Governor of Kogi State and agencies involved in ensuring the living conditions of the people of Afenmai.”

    Meanwhile, the president of Etsako Club ’81, Chief Greg Otsu, in his welcome address, emphasised the value of the Afenmai culture.

    He said: “Afenmai people are great people, and we have sons and scions who are doing well in their various assignments and endeavours. I want us to look inward and see what we have. We should be proud of ourselves. Together, let’s develop Afenmai land, as its growth and development are of utmost interest to me.”

    He related camaraderie between people of Afenmai origin. 

    “An Afenmai is a great man, and I’ll implore us to strengthen our camaraderie. Let the seniors take the juniors as mentors. I can proudly say today that I’m one of the beneficiaries of such mentoring. We made our way into UNILAG that year and met Prof. Momodu Kazzim Momodu as my lecturer. His guidance came in handy, and it would be good if we could do more of it.”

    He thanked the Chairman, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, and welcomed the honourable Minister for Regional Development,  Alh. (Engr) Abubakar Momoh, Emperor Jareth, the APC Chairman for Edo State, all other dignitaries, and everyone to the event and urged them to embrace the celebratory atmosphere. 

    The Chief Host and Chairman Board of Trustees for Etsako Club ’81, Chief Samuel Afemikhe, in his address, noted that the club was founded to preserve the culture of the people. 

    “Etsako Club ’81 was established in 1981 to collectively preserve our culture, guarantee positive change within the society, and work relentlessly for the economic development of all parts of Etsako land. Etsako, made of three local governments, is a subset of Afenmai, otherwise known as Edo North. It has a rich and diverse language that weaves into one robust whole.

    “I’m conversant with variants related to the Okpella dialect where I was born and learnt the Opepe and Uzaire dialects among others, and I’ve come to realise the variations weave into a dynamic identity and cultural entity” 

    He then stressed the need for preservation. 

    “You have seen the beauty of the Afenmai culture, enjoyed the melody of the Afenmai music, even in this hall. You’ll, therefore, agree with me that there’s a great need for preservation and sustenance.”

    He concluded that the Afenmai culture is rich in values such as spirituality, family connectivity, and respect for elders.

    The high points of the occasion were the unveiling of Afenmai food and the music breaks, wherein many frolicked to irresistible Afenmai music, including the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Mike Ozekhome. 

    Also, speaking at the event, Anamero Dakari, representing Etsako Federal Constituency, noted that there is so much work to be done.

    “Etsako Federal Constituency is a great constituency with industrious people. A lot of things needed to be done. Firstly, our role as parliamentarians is to make laws for those who govern the society, but at the moment, the person paramount concern of every Nigerian is security.

    “Hence, I’m currently in partnership with security operatives to ensure that my people in Etsako Federal Constituency feel safe back home. Moreover, I’ve attracted some interventions to my constituency. I have equally executed some projects, and I am poised to do even more.”

    He stressed his commitment to the unity of Etsako.

  • ‘Tantita not guilty of rights abuses’

    ‘Tantita not guilty of rights abuses’

    The Northern Youths Progressive Network has defended Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited against allegations of human rights abuses.

    The group said the “unfounded” allegations were intended to undermine the reputation of the security organisation that is actively combating pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

    The Arewa Youth Alliance for Progress and Development had accused the security organisation of human rights abuses.

    In a statement on Sunday, Convener of the Northern Youths Progressive Network, Comrade Bala Mohammed highlighted Tantita’s significant contributions since 2022.

    He noted that the organisation has boosted revenue generation and created over 47,000 jobs in the Niger Delta.

    Mohammed said that Tantita has received acclaim from stakeholders in the oil sector for its effective operations and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

    He urged the public to recognise the positive impact of Tantita’s work, which focuses on apprehending offenders and cooperating with the appropriate authorities.

    Mohammed stated: “These allegations are baseless and malicious, aiming to tarnish the reputation of a top-performing private security organisation dedicated to eradicating pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region.

    “The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, made a prudent decision to engage Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, given its expertise in pipeline surveillance.

    Read Also: Delta Ijaw APC stakeholders applaud Tinubu for Tantita contracts, key appointments

    “Tantita’s activities have received widespread acclaim from stakeholders in the oil sector and the government.

    “Notably, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has created over 47,000 jobs in the Niger Delta, enhancing the socioeconomic development of the region and contributing to the recovery of the degraded environment caused by oil theft.”

  • Ikhilor: Okpebholo’s square peg in a square hole

    Ikhilor: Okpebholo’s square peg in a square hole

    By John Mayaki 

    When Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo appointed Barr. Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), three months ago, many were left wondering. His name wasn’t one that resonated loudly in Edo State’s political circles, yet he was entrusted with the engine room of the administration. Now, as the governor marks his first 100 days in office, it has become abundantly clear – Okpebholo got this appointment absolutely right.

    For those who doubted his political sagacity and relevance, his administrative capacity and know-how, Ikhilor recently proved why he is the right man for the job. He stepped forward to defend his boss and the administration, making two commanding television appearances – first on Channels Television, then on TVC. Both outings can be described as nothing short of superlative. His depth of understanding, clarity of thought, eloquence, and composure were on full display.

    I took note, particularly, when Seun Okinbaloye of Channels TV attempted to steer him off course, Ikhilor stood his ground. He exposed how Obaseki’s administration ran Edo State aground and showcased the remarkable increase in internally generated revenue under Okpebholo’s leadership. He revealed that upon assuming office, the administration was operating blindly until an asset verification team uncovered Obaseki’s can of worms. 

    He mentioned the scam that is now Radisson Blue Hotel, where government spent money on the project but Obaseki willed the shares to a company that was recently registered just a month before the expiration of the administration. It’s a must watched interview with huge revelations. 

    For the first time in a long while, Edo people saw an SSG who was not just a figurehead but a defender of the administration’s vision and policies. His commanding media presence and detailed breakdown of governance realities made Edo people proud. Unsurprisingly, his two TV appearances have since gone viral.

    When Ikhilor was first appointed, many questioned the rationale behind his selection. Now, let me say this – I am not sure he would be happy that I’m revealing this, but the truth must be told. Ikhilor was not just another political appointee; he was a key strategist, who worked behind the scenes as part of Okpebholo’s inner circle long before the election was won.

    His commitment to the project cannot be wished away just as everyone who worked for Okpebholo’s victory, and his investment in the administration’s success came at great personal cost – sacrifices I may not be at liberty to disclose.

    Read Also: Six well-paying underrated jobs in Nigeria

    What makes Ikhilor different from many before him is that he is not just occupying an office – he is making real impact. Unlike the conventional politicians who see the position of SSG as a ceremonial role, Ikhilor has approached it with the seriousness of a technocrat, with the foresight of a strategist, and the diligence of an administrator.

    A Muslim appointed by a Christian governor – to tell you how this appointment further unite our people – Ikhilor’s appointment also tells of  Okpebholo’s commitment to competence over religious or political affiliations. Ikhilor has shown himself as a seasoned legal expert, with a rich history in legislative drafting and parliamentary affairs. He built his career as a respected lawyer and became widely recognized in the National Assembly as one of the most reliable hands in the art of bill drafting and legislative processes. His expertise is a rare asset, and Edo State is already reaping the benefits.

    With the first 100 days successfully in the bag, the real work of governance begins. Ikhilor has already shown that he is not just a silent bureaucrat but an active player in shaping policy and governance. His deep knowledge of legislative processes could prove invaluable in drafting and implementing new reforms that will drive Edo’s progress.

    One thing is now clear and certain, Governor Okpebholo made the right choice, and Edo State is better for it. As the SSG continues to play his role in the administration, Edo people should expect to see more structure, more policy direction, and a more coordinated government. If his first 100 days are anything to go by, then the best is yet to come.

  • NGO hosts colloquium on Okpebholo’s 100 days in office 

    NGO hosts colloquium on Okpebholo’s 100 days in office 

    As Edo State marks 100 days under Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa is set to host a colloquium to assess and highlight his administration’s early achievements.

    The event, scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, in Abuja, will bring together key stakeholders, political analysts, and media professionals to discuss the impact of Governor Okpebholo’s policies within this short but significant period.

    With the theme: “Tracking the Achievements of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s First 100 Days in Office,” the colloquium will provide a platform for a critical and objective review of governance under the new administration.

    The event will be held under the chairmanship of Professor Abiodun Adeniyi

    Professor of Communication, Baze University, Abuja. 

    Read Also:Meet 21 young Nigerians and Guinness World Record holders

    Scheduled to take place at the Practical Governance Hall, Edo State Liaison Office, Edo House, Abuja, the gathering will serve as an interactive forum for Edo media practitioners and governance experts based in Abuja.

    As part of the program, the Coalition will also launch a special magazine, documenting Governor Okpebholo’s achievements across key sectors during his first 100 days in office.

    This initiative reflects the importance of transparency, accountability, and public engagement in governance. As the administration moves forward, such discussions will play a crucial role in shaping expectations and setting the tone for the next phase of leadership in Edo State.

  • Group condemns attack on Asaba Specialist Hospital GMD

    Group condemns attack on Asaba Specialist Hospital GMD

    A coalition of non-governmental organisations under the auspices of the Nigerian Women Executives Network (NWEN) has denounced a recent media smear campaign targeting the reputation of Dr Peace Ighosewe, the Chief Medical Director of Asaba Specialist Hospital.

    The group, under the leadership of Coordinator Mabel Egege, dismissed the allegations as unfounded and maliciously designed to damage the reputation of the Chief Medical Director.

    According to the group, the smear campaign against Dr. Ighosewe, the Chief Medical Director of Asaba Specialist Hospital, is driven by envy. They believe that Dr. Ighosewe’s successes since taking over the hospital have sparked jealousy, leading to repeated attempts to tarnish her reputation.

    The group specifically pointed out that these unknown individuals have now teamed up with some faceless blogs on social media to further their malicious goals.

    The coalition praised the exceptional patient experience at Asaba Specialist Hospital under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ighosewe. Notably, the hospital has established itself as a premier healthcare institution in Delta State, distinguished by its impressive staff-to-patient ratio, ensuring that patients receive prompt, personalized attention around the clock.

    This impressive standard and growth of the hospital, the coalition emphasized, is a clear indication of Dr. Ighosewe’s effective management and visionary leadership, which has transformed the hospital into a vibrant and efficient healthcare institution.

    “The significant increase in staff has undoubtedly enhanced the hospital’s capacity to provide quality medical services, improving the overall healthcare experience for patients and contributing to the well-being of the community,” she said.

    On infrastructure development, the Coordinator said under Dr Ighosewe’s watch, the hospital has embarked on the construction of waiting areas for Children, Antenatal, GOPD and Dental Clinic with the expansion of the existing Health Insurance Clinic, labour ward and labour ward theatre. The construction of the Gynae ward, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, as well as Gynae Emergency wards, have also been some of the infrastructural development that has happened under her leadership.

    Her words: “We, as mothers, have firsthand experience with this hospital, where we received free maternal care, including cesarean sections. We’ve witnessed the hospital’s growth, particularly in the maternity ward, where overcrowding was alleviated by the timely construction of new waiting areas. This demonstrates the Chief Medical Director’s, Dr. Peace Ighosewe, genuine concern for patient well-being. As a way of easing the stress faced by breastfeeding mothers, a well-equipped, fully subsided creche has since been set up in the hospital.

    Dr. Ighosewe’s five-year tenure has been a resounding success, marked by numerous achievements, all funded through Internally Generated Revenue, a testament to her visionary leadership and prudent management.”

    “Under her administration, the hospital has significantly expanded its capacity to deliver high-quality healthcare services, while consistently upholding its reputation as one of the cleanest and most serene healthcare facilities in the region. The hospital’s tranquil and conducive environment provides an ideal setting for patients to receive treatment and recover.”

    “Furthermore, Dr. Ighosewe’s leadership and vision for the hospital’s growth and development has been instrumental in its transformation into a reputable teaching hospital which has made her a target for those who seek to undermine her reputation.

    “Dr Peace Ighosewe’s achievements are indeed worthy of recognition, and it’s great to acknowledge the significant support she’s received from the Delta State Government throughout her tenure. Asaba Specialist Hospital, where she serves as the Chief Medical Director, has benefited greatly from this partnership, evident in its expansion and accreditation of medical programs.

    “It’s essential to set the record straight, especially when faced with false and malicious claims. Dr. Ighosewe’s dedication to improving healthcare in Delta State is undeniable, and her work has positively impacted countless lives. As we urge Deltans and Nigerians to recognize her achievements, we also call on the Delta State Government to continue and intensify its support for her initiatives.

    “By doing so, we can ensure that Asaba Specialist Hospital remains a beacon of quality healthcare, providing the best possible services to the people of Delta State. Let’s rally behind Dr. Ighosewe and acknowledge her tireless efforts to improve healthcare in the region.”